THE PERFECT EVENING ROUTINE

26 Feb 2018

We reveal the secrets to a great night’s sleep.

As you likely know, there are extensive beauty benefits to a good night’s sleep. Skin looks rested and glowing, eyes are brighter, and it’s even been proven that sufficient rest reduces immune-related skin conditions such as eczema and psoriasis. The hard part is simply achieving enough of it.

The team at ELEMIS understand that beauty is as much about what you put on your skin as it is a healthy lifestyle. With that in mind, here are a few secrets to help you slip into a perfect night’s slumber.

Think silk

It’s totally acceptable to be high maintenance when it comes to your skin - so, when it comes to bed linen, don’t settle for anything less than silk. Eschewing the cotton and resting your face on silk fibres every night is a smart move, as it can help to stop creases forming on the complexion, which may become fine lines over time. Silk fibres don’t absorb moisture, leaving your carefully applied products to sink solely into your skin. And, as dust mites don’t like to linger on silk fibres, they’re also naturally hypoallergenic. You’re sure to notice how much smoother your skin feels come morning.

Set your bedtime

Like it or not, we are all creatures of habit. Going to bed at the same time every night trains your body and mind into a routine. The body’s natural circadian rhythm - simply put, your 24-hour biological clock - controls everything from sleep patterns and body temperature to when and how often hormones are released. Erratic sleep patterns can upset the rhythm, which throws bodily processes off kilter - skin restoration included. Sticking to the same bedtime each night will help to regulate this.

Keep consistent

Just like your body, your skin needs a consistent routine. The first and most important step is to cleanse properly every night. ELEMIS Pro-Collagen Cleansing Balm gently dissolves impurities, make-up and toxins from the skin surface, while the soothing rose and mimosa aroma quietens the mind. Once your complexion is thoroughly cleansed and toned, it’s time for nourishment. Peptide⁴ Night Recovery Cream-Oil works like a reset button to reboot the skin overnight, supporting the natural processes of repair and renewal. Lastly, it’s important to seal in the actives with a hydrating moisturiser. Skin loses the most moisture at night, as this is when it’s working its hardest, so it’s even more important to replenish. Our Pro-Collagen Oxygenating Night Cream is the perfect top layer.

Digital detox

A box-set before bed might be habit, but staring at a screen (whether your laptop, television or phone) is sending the wrong messages to your skin and brain. The blue and white HEV light emitted from such technology prevents the brain from releasing the hormone melatonin, which signals to the body that it’s time to sleep. As a result, the body takes longer to switch off, reducing the time our skin has to restore. We’d recommend prying your eyes away from the screens at least one hour before lights out - your skin is sure to thank you for it.

Clean up your act

Evidence suggests that living in a messy environment increases anxiety levels, meaning sleep is likely to be restless and disjointed. This cuts short the amount of time and energy skin has to repair damage and restore itself. A clear bedroom leads to a clear mind, and will help no end to improve the quality of your slumber.

Stop the stimulants

We all know we shouldn’t drink caffeine right before bed, but did you know that you shouldn’t be drinking it for as long as six hours before sleep? This powerful stimulant remains in your bloodstream for hours, so it’s important to eschew the coffee after lunch. The same goes for alcohol - while a nightcap might help you drift off faster, it may also compromise the quality of your sleep. The sugar in the alcohol will leave your body restless, and too busy fighting off the toxins to restore efficiently. Instead, try a soothing chamomile or peppermint tea.